NBA commissioner Adam Silver confirmed on Thursday that the league, in collaboration with FIBA, is advancing plans to establish a new league in Europe, but he refrained from making any official announcements about timelines or which teams might be involved.
Silver addressed the crowd ahead of the Memphis–Orlando game in Berlin, which is the first of two NBA Europe Games on this trip; the Grizzlies and Magic will face off again in London on Sunday. To Silver, even mentioning the idea of the long-anticipated new league in Germany felt appropriate, especially with the nation currently hosting the World Cup and EuroBasket titles.
«We are currently the fastest-growing sport in this country,» Silver expressed. «There’s essentially a golden age, I would say, for the sport. … The 1936 Olympics held here in Berlin was when basketball was first included in the Olympic movement. Actually, James Naismith came to Berlin for those games and supposedly initiated the opening tip of the Games. So, there’s that rich history here.»
The major inquiry is the future of the game in Germany and throughout Europe. The influence of international players — particularly those from Europe — on the NBA is evident, with Serbia’s Nikola Jokic, Greece’s Giannis Antetokounmpo, France’s Victor Wembanyama, and Slovenia’s Luka Doncic ranking among the world’s premier basketball talents, all following the path set by German legend Dirk Nowitzki and others.
Numerous specifics regarding the new league have yet to be officially settled, including the commencement of play — with a tentative goal of October 2027 — and the number of teams that will participate in the inaugural season. Among the frameworks that the NBA and FIBA have examined is a 16-team league, with 12 «permanent» slots and the remaining four earned through qualifying.
«I can only say we remain tremendously enthusiastic about it,» Silver remarked concerning the prospect of NBA Europe. «We’ve been engaging with clubs interested in joining our league. We’ve held discussions with other possible stakeholders, including media organizations eager to cover it, prospective media partners, and traditional sponsors who wish to collaborate with us on the league. We’re exploring the potential to enhance the arena infrastructure, not just in Germany but throughout the continent. It’s something that we are very excited about.»
The current target nations for the NBA-FIBA initiative reportedly include England (with London and Manchester as possible host cities), France (Paris and Lyon), Spain (Madrid and Barcelona), Italy (Rome and Milan), Germany (Munich and Berlin), Greece (Athens), and Turkey (Istanbul).
Growth will take time
The league, along with its financial partners and consultants, has been in discussions with interested parties across Europe — existing clubs, government officials, and others — for quite some time.
There will be an entry fee, and it will be significant. Those anticipating a quick return on these investments may find themselves disappointed, Silver cautioned.
«Initial funding would likely come from the league’s member clubs,» Silver indicated. «I believe, like any startup, the participants would serve as investors, hoping to achieve a return over time. … I think that if we successfully establish this new league, it will require time before it evolves into a sustainable commercial entity. All participants understand that this endeavor is not meant for those who seek immediate results.»
Additionally, new arenas will be necessary in select markets, which will inevitably require time and further investment.
«What we’re communicating to interested parties is that a long-term outlook is essential,» Silver advised.
Stance of players
Orlando boasts three German players on its roster who participated in the Berlin game, including Franz Wagner, who has discussed the concept with Silver. Doncic has also contributed his views, and Silver stated that he valued those perspectives.
«It’s vital that we honor the traditions of European basketball. … We are aiming to discover the best blend of tradition and innovation,» Silver explained. «I truly believe that’s what the NBA brings to the table. This is also why having FIBA as a partner, along with existing basketball organizations that comprehend the culture, traditions, and history of European basketball, is so imperative.»
NBA expansion
Currently, Silver and the NBA are managing the potential introduction of a league in Europe while also contemplating expansion beyond the existing 30 teams. Las Vegas and Seattle are the leading candidates for NBA growth, should it occur.
«I’m sure you can spot the bags under my eyes,» Silver admitted. «However, we embrace hard work at the NBA.»
Silver has stated that a decision regarding NBA expansion will be made by the end of 2026, reiterating that position on Thursday.
«Honestly, for me, the most significant challenge would be establishing a new league in Europe,» Silver noted. «As I mentioned, that’s an enormous undertaking, which is why we are proceeding cautiously and carefully, ensuring we’re covering all our bases.»
